- Eskom implemented Stage 5 loadshedding earlier today at 12:00.
- The power utility says it will increase the level to Stage 6 tomorrow from 5:00 in the morning.
- The reason given by Eskom is a number of generators breaking down over the past 24 hours.
This week is shaping up to be yet another tough one for South Africans as Eskom announced Stage 5 loadshedding at short notice earlier today, with it taking effect as of 12:00 midday.
It is set to increase tomorrow, worsening the situation for many, as Stage 6 loadshedding will be implemented until further notice until 5:00 in the morning. Thereafter Stage 5 will continue until further notice.
The reason for the increase, according to a power alert issued by the company via its official Twitter account, is the breakdown of multiple generating units over the past 24 hours. More specifically Eskom says breakdowns were suffered at its plants in Duvha, Hendrina, Matla, Arnot, and others, while other units have failed to return to service, exacerbating issues for the power utility.
When loadshedding will be reduced to a more acceptable level remains to be seen, but as always Eskom has urged South Africans to use their electricity sparingly. How that will be possible given the rise in temperatures of late is anyone’s guess, but to stay on top of further announcements, as well as the schedule in your area, we suggest downloading Eskomsepush.
With government currently mulling over a decision on whether the country should be moved to a national state of disaster regarding loadshedding, the latest move to Stage 5, and then Stage 6 thereafter, does not bode well.
